Subsea Flow Base System with Modular Nesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Subsea hydrocarbon production systems face challenges in shallow water installations, including complex infrastructure, component misalignment tolerances, and conflicts with fishing zones due to large and spread-out production modules, necessitating a compact and flexible solution for subsea well management.
Innovation Solution
A flow base system comprising a header pipe with connected flow base modules, fixed to a template structure, allowing for compact and cost-effective installation, with removable valves for maintenance and adjustable piping for tolerance alignment, and utilizing standard components for streamlined building and upscaling/downscaling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If production modules are spread out on the seabed in traditional template structures, then each well can be accessed individually, but the seabed footprint is large and conflicts with fishing zones
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests multiple flow base modules within a single template structure, allowing multiple wells to be served from one compact seabed footprint. The flow base modules are arranged vertically and horizontally within the template, enabling individual well access while minimizing the overall seabed area occupied.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of different structures or modules are fitted to each other on the seabed, then more wells can be accommodated, but tolerance requirements increase and assembly becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the production system into standardized flow base modules that can be assembled in a systematic manner. Each module has defined connection interfaces that simplify the assembly process and reduce tolerance requirements compared to fitting numerous different structures together.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal connection interfaces and standardized module designs that can accommodate multiple wells with the same assembly procedures. This multi-functionality reduces the complexity of assembly and minimizes tolerance requirements by using repeated, standardized components rather than unique custom-fitted structures.
3Manufacturing precision
If rigid piping spools are used to achieve flexibility in piping structures, then tolerance requirements are met, but the system becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid piping spools with flexible hoses that can accommodate tolerance variations in the assembly. The flexible hoses provide the necessary flexibility to connect components with slight misalignments, eliminating the need for complex rigid piping structures with multiple joints and adjustments.
4Reliability
If the entire production system must be dismantled for piping component repairs, then system integrity is maintained, but maintenance time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the production system into modular flow base units that can be independently accessed and maintained. The removable piping deck allows specific components to be repaired or replaced without dismantling the entire production system, while maintaining system integrity through proper isolation and reassembly procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
A flow base system (1) for subsea wells is disclosed, the flow base system comprising a header pipe (2) for production fluid extended through the flow base system,wherein from opposite sides of the header pipe (3) a set of flow base modules (2), respectively, is connected for supply of production fluid to the header pipe (3) via individual branch pipes(10) connecting the header pipe (3) with a Christmas tree (XT) interface (11) arranged for vertical connection to an XT respectively. The flow base system (1) is installed in a well template structure (18), wherein a flow base module (2) respectively is inserted into each well slot (S1-S4) formed in the well template structure (18).